Chateau Talbot Saint Julien 2020
Country: France Region: Bordeaux (St. Julien)
Varietal: 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot.
Vintage: 2020 Colour: Red
Producer: Chateau Talbot
Description:
A 4th Classified Growth of Saint-Julien, Chateau Talbot is one of the iconic references of Haut-Médoc. Acquired by Désiré Cordier in 1918, Château Talbot is today managed by Nancy Bignon-Cordier and her husband, Jean-Paul Bignon. The Château Talbot vineyard is a real treasure, covering 110 hectares of vines all in one piece, in the heart of the Saint-Julien appellation. These vines, aged 45 years on average, have an ideal location on the edge of the Gironde estuary, planted on ridges of Médoc gravel and alluvial deposits.
Critical Acclaim
This is a great Talbot, a real success for the château. Subtle and deft touches throughout, from the smoked turmeric notes that lace the black fruits to the finessed aromatics that accompany the body of the wine. Balance and freshness, and a saline edge to the finish that is extremely moreish. Three years with Jean-Michel Laporte as director and he is doing great work. (6/2020)
94/95 points James Suckling, JamesSuckling.comA tight, focused young red with blackcurrant, lead-pencil and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied and tense with a long, flavorful finish.
90/92 pts Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
Deep purple-black colored, the 2020 Talbot storms out of the glass with powerful blackcurrants, raspberry leaves and baked plums scents, followed by suggestions of dried Mediterranean herbs, tobacco leaf and graphite. The medium-bodied palate delivers lovely freshness and an approachable chewiness, nicely framing the herb-laced black fruits, finishing savory.
93 points DecanterSt Julien's largest property at 110ha (up there with Lagrange if you're keeping track), this has lovely plump black fruits on the nose. Takes hold right from the start, with clear tannic build and a silky character to the tannins. This continues the run of good vintages that Talbot has been producing since 2016. Well balanced, with plenty of St Julien character. Tasted twice two weeks apart. Highest ever level of Cabernet Sauvignon at the estate. Harvest 19 September to 8 October. 60% new oak.
Food Matches: Beef, Venison, Poultry